Petra, Jordan recommendations

Cook with Bedouin guides, trek from a nature reserve, play Indiana Jones in a desert canyon – discover Jordan's 'lost' city of Petra for yourself

Petra Top 5

Walk down the Siq to the Treasury – the classic Petra experience. The Siq (Arabic for gorge) is just over a kilometre long and 150m high, but only a few metres wide in places; it is certainly the most atmospheric lead-up to the awesome Treasury, the iconic facade carved into the cliff, dating back to the first century BC. Aim to arrive here at 9-10am, when the sun first hits the rock face.

Walk up to the Monastery – Petra's largest monument is about one hour's walk up a stepped trail above the ancient city, from where you get sweeping views of the surrounding desert.

Wander Petra by night – a guided two-hour night walk runs three times a week, departing from the Visitor Centre. It takes you along the main path, set with candles on the ground, through the Siq to the Treasury where a Bedouin piper adds to the atmosphere.

Trek from Dana to Petra. The best way to access the complex is to walk the little-used, 50km-long path from the Dana Nature Reserve. The walk takes three to four days and encompasses remote mountain trails, dramatic desert views and remote camping under the stars.

Climb Jebel Haroun, at 1,350m Petra's highest peak. The summit is believed to be the final resting place of Moses's brother Aaron and is marked by a simple white shrine. It's a long, strenuous walk (it takes a day there and back) but the views are worth the effort.

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